Quick Facts
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Jurisdiction | Wisconsin |
| Regulatory Authority | Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) |
| License Required? | Yes – Certificate of Authority for Intrastate Household Goods Carriers |
| Insurance Required? | Yes – Public liability and cargo insurance required |
| Tariff Filing Required? | Yes – Must file tariffs detailing rates and charges |
| Registration Number | Must obtain a Wisconsin USDOT number for intrastate operation |
| Annual Filing? | Yes – Renewal and insurance updates are required annually |
Overview & Scope
Any company transporting household goods for compensation within the state of Wisconsin must obtain a Certificate of Authority from the Wisconsin Department of Transportation. This includes services such as loading, transporting, and unloading household items for intrastate moves.
Registration & Compliance Essentials
Movers must:
- Apply for Certificate of Authority to operate as a household goods carrier in Wisconsin.
- Maintain insurance coverage, including:
- Public liability insurance
- Property damage coverage
- Cargo insurance
- File a tariff that lists all charges, rates, and services offered.
- Register with a Wisconsin USDOT number if operating commercial motor vehicles only within the state.
- Comply with annual filing requirements, including updates to insurance and contact information.
Consumer Protections
- Movers must provide written estimates and contracts.
- Charges must comply with the filed tariff.
- Insurance coverage must be in place to protect consumer goods in transit.
- Consumers can contact WisDOT for verification or to file a complaint regarding service quality, overcharges, or damage.
Compliance Checklist
| Requirement | Required |
|---|---|
| Certificate of Authority | ✅ Yes |
| USDOT Intrastate Number | ✅ Yes |
| Liability and Cargo Insurance | ✅ Yes |
| Tariff Filing | ✅ Yes |
| Annual Renewal | ✅ Yes |
| Written Estimates and Contracts | ✅ Yes |
| Consumer Complaint Process | ✅ Yes |
Disclaimer:
This page summarizes key licensing and compliance requirements for household goods movers operating in Wisconsin. Regulations may change. Movers are responsible for confirming current laws and submitting all required applications, filings, and fees with the appropriate state agency.
Last updated: August 8, 2025